Yale University’s Popular ‘Happiness’ Course Is Free and I’m Taking It

Losing your mind yet? When I look online it seems that people are getting more than a bit stir crazy. Sad, mad, depressed, scared, and confused. All of the emotional ups and downs are getting to us all.

I think right now, most of us would benefit from Yale University’s “happiness” course. It just so happens to be free online!

The true name of the course is “The Science of Well-Being”.

We’re in a particularly challenging time not just for this health crisis, this physical health crisis, but also a potential mental health crisis as well.

Yale psychology professor Laurie Santos, course creator

Taking (auditing) the course is free! However, if you want to complete assignments and submit for a grade with a certificate of completion, that would be $49.

The course description reads:

“In this course you will engage in a series of challenges designed to increase your own happiness and build more productive habits. As preparation for these tasks, Professor Laurie Santos reveals misconceptions about happiness, annoying features of the mind that lead us to think the way we do, and the research that can help us change. You will ultimately be prepared to successfully incorporate a specific wellness activity into your life.”

Our minds lie to us all the time. We miswant things. We think we need to change our life circumstances to become happier. What plays a much bigger role are our simple practices, simple acts like making a social connection, or taking time for gratitude, or taking time to be in the present moment.

Yale psychology professor Laurie Santos, course creator

I think now is the perfect time to take the course! Don’t let the darkness take over your light! There is still a ton of good going on in the world and in your life! I promise!

You can sign up to take the free course on Coursera, I just signed up myself!